Courses and Subjects

Courses and Subjects

Downham Market Academy Sixth Form offers the opportunity to study A Levels or vocational courses.

A Levels

A Levels are one of the main routes to higher education and university, although they are also useful if you want to go straight into employment. An A Level is a level 3 qualification consisting of four modules studied over two years.

Vocational Courses

Vocational courses focus on a specific subject area, combining practical and academic study. They are designed to give you the knowledge and skills relevant to a variety of jobs or may offer specialist qualifications for a particular industry sector. They can also be a route to higher education.

BTEC and Cambridge Technicals Level 3 qualifications have the same academic level as A levels and are assessed through coursework.

A BTEC Subsidiary Diploma is the equivalent of one A Level, a BTEC Diploma equates to two A Levels and a BTEC Extended Diploma is equal to three A Levels.

Entry Requirements

A Levels: You will need at least six GCSEs at grade 5 or above (including maths and English*). Three of these should be at grade 6 or above.

Level 3 BTEC Diplomas: You will need five GCSEs at grade 5 or above (including maths and English*).

In addition some subjects at A level require a higher GCSE or specialist skills or knowledge to a certain level (e.g. music requires a grade 5 or better qualification in the instrument to be studied); parents/carers/students should refer to the specific subject course descriptions on the website for details.

*GCSE grade 4 in maths and English is a requirement for entry to university and higher study and it important that students achieve these. In order to ensure students are able to access the widest

possible range of opportunities upon leaving, applications from students without a 4 grade in maths and English may be considered depending on overall results in exceptional circumstances.

The following table lists the choices on offer and the additional specific entry requirements for each one.